The prophecy of Samuel's call is a significant event in the Old Testament, marking the transition from the period of the judges to the establishment of the monarchy in Israel. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 3 and highlights the calling of Samuel as a prophet and judge over Israel.

Background

Samuel was the son of Elkanah and Hannah, born in response to Hannah's fervent prayers for a child (1 Samuel 1:20). Dedicated to the Lord by his mother, Samuel was brought to the tabernacle at Shiloh to serve under the priest Eli (1 Samuel 1:24-28). During this time, "the word of the LORD was rare; there were not many visions" (1 Samuel 3:1), indicating a period of spiritual decline in Israel.

The Call of Samuel

The narrative of Samuel's call begins with him lying down in the house of the LORD, where the ark of God was located. The LORD called Samuel three times, but Samuel, not yet familiar with the voice of the LORD, mistook it for Eli's voice. Each time, he ran to Eli, saying, "Here I am, for you called me" (1 Samuel 3:5). Eli, realizing that it was the LORD calling the boy, instructed Samuel to respond, "Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:9).

When the LORD called Samuel a fourth time, Samuel responded as instructed. The LORD revealed to Samuel a message of judgment against Eli's house due to the iniquity of his sons, Hophni and Phinehas, and Eli's failure to restrain them (1 Samuel 3:11-14). This message was a confirmation of a previous prophecy delivered by a man of God to Eli (1 Samuel 2:27-36).

Samuel's Role as Prophet

Following this encounter, Samuel became established as a prophet of the LORD. "The LORD was with Samuel as he grew, and He let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground" (1 Samuel 3:19). All of Israel, from Dan to Beersheba, recognized that Samuel was a trustworthy prophet of the LORD (1 Samuel 3:20). The LORD continued to appear at Shiloh and revealed Himself to Samuel through His word (1 Samuel 3:21).

Significance

The call of Samuel marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history. It signifies the end of the period of the judges and the beginning of a new era where prophets played a crucial role in guiding the nation. Samuel's prophetic ministry laid the foundation for the anointing of Israel's first kings, Saul and David, and the establishment of the Davidic line, which is central to the biblical narrative of redemption.

Samuel's call also underscores the importance of obedience and attentiveness to God's voice. Despite his youth, Samuel's willingness to listen and respond to the LORD's call set him apart as a faithful servant, contrasting with the disobedience of Eli's sons. This narrative serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty in choosing and equipping His servants for His purposes, regardless of their background or age.